South Africa

South Africa has 12 public holidays in 2026. These are nationally recognised days when most workers are entitled to a day off.

No, today is not a public holiday in South Africa. The next public holiday is Youth Day on June 16, 2026.

The next public holiday in South Africa is Youth Day, on June 16, 2026.

In most countries, employees are entitled to paid leave on official public holidays. The rules in South Africa depend on employment contracts and local labour law. If a public holiday falls on a weekend, a substitute day off ("in lieu") may apply — check with your employer or local government guidance for details.

The dates of most public holidays in South Africa are fixed by law and remain the same each year. However, some holidays — particularly those tied to religious or lunar calendars — shift by a few days annually. Our calendar is updated each year to reflect the official published dates.